IDLES - Brutalism

Partisan Records

IDLES influential debut 'Brutalism' turns 5. A soundtrack to the UK and its developments in Brexit, among many other things of the day.

The recent surge in punk aesthetic began long before this records release. However, it's hard to discuss said recent surge without returning to this album and its resounding impact thereafter - especially in the UK. IDLES captured a nation's state with relation to political turmoil and the inner workings of our individual selves. A whirlwind of subject matter portrayed through unforgiving, brutalist-like material.

Brutalism is a type of architecture that emerged in 1950's United States. It is characterized by rough, unfinished surfaces, unusual shapes, heavy-looking material, straight lines and small windows - these buildings can look like the results of art projects gone wrong in some cases. Not necessarily easy on the eyes. IDLES embodied the brutalist movement in their material and paralleled specific characteristics of the movement - sharp edges, heavy material and a rough approach to the finished product.

Joe Talbot's mother passed away during the recording of the album, inherently influencing the subject matter and overall emotive essence. Mark Bowen, Lee Kierney, Adam Devonshire and Jon Beavis provide a harsh, forthright backdrop in the process.

A bold statement from one of the UK's finest bands on the contemporary scene. They would reach further fields and play decade defining gigs at the likes of Glastonbury in the years to come, but Brutalism finds them at their rawest and most anarchic best.

Notable Tracks: Mother, Well Done

March 10th, 2017.